Goosenecks Viewpoint Trail

San Juan County, Utah

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Details

Distance

1.86 miles

Elevation Gain

66 ft

Route Type

Out-and-Back

Description

Added by Matthew Eaton

This state park lies in the middle of nowhere, about 2 hours south of Moab. As you drive up, you have no idea that an epic view of a 1000ft canyon carved by the San Juan River lies only feet away from the parking area.

For a small entrance fee of $5, you have the chance to photograph a beautiful canyon view without having to hike miles and days to get to it. Enjoy this rare luxury! There is a pavilion with a picnic table for dinner while you wait for the sunset, and there are also bathrooms if you need them.

There is a trail along the canyon rim that will allow you to explore multiple angles and find just the right spot. And since it is flat and maintained, you can easily run from spot to spot once the beautiful desert sun turns on the magic light. While I was at this location, we also had epic winds so be aware that while you’ll normally want a tripod, it may not be usable. However, a gradient neutral density filter is a must.

Additionally, you can camp, hike, and mountain bike within this park. The San Juan River through this beautiful canyon is also a popular spot to kayak, canoe, or raft.

If you want to camp at Goosenecks, check out this adventure: https://www.theoutbound.com/ut...

Directions:

From highway US-191, turn onto highway US-163 S and continue for 16.6 miles. Turn right onto UT-261 N and follow for one mile before turning left onto UT-316 which will take you the final 3.5 miles to the entrance of the state park.

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Features

Photography

Hiking

Bathrooms

Dog Friendly

Easy Parking

Family Friendly

Picnic Area

Scenic

Wildflowers

ADA Accessible

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